In a strategic offseason move, the Edmonton Oilers have bolstered their roster by signing experienced forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year contract valued at $3 million. This signing comes after the Buffalo Sabres bought out Skinner, allowing the Oilers to snatch up the talented winger.
Skinner brings a wealth of experience and a goal-scoring pedigree to Edmonton. His previous contract with the Sabres was an eight-year deal worth $9 million annually, a reflection of his capability on the ice. Skinner justified that hefty investment during his first year by netting an impressive 40 goals.
However, Skinner’s performance dipped between 2019 and 2021, where he managed just 21 goals and 35 points over 112 games. Despite this decline, he rebounded strongly in the 2021-22 season, scoring 30 goals and amassing 63 points. The following season, 2022-23, saw Skinner elevate his game further, registering 35 goals and a career-high 82 points.
Looking at his career, Skinner has demonstrated consistent scoring ability. He boasts six 20-goal seasons and three 30-goal campaigns with the Carolina Hurricanes, making him a valuable addition to the Oilers' offensive lineup.
The Oilers, who narrowly missed clinching the Stanley Cup last season, made room for Skinner by buying out the final three years of goaltender Jack Campbell's contract, which was costing the team $5 million annually. This move reflects the Oilers' commitment to balancing their roster while managing the constraints of the salary cap.
In addition to signing Skinner, the Oilers have been busy reinforcing their squad with other key signings. Forwards Connor Brown and Corey Perry were re-signed for a combined $2.15 million on one-year deals. The team also secured Viktor Arvidsson on a two-year contract worth $4 million annually, adding depth and versatility to their forward ranks. On the defensive side, Josh Brown was brought in on a three-year deal at $1 million annually, bolstering the team’s backline.
Warren Foegele, another forward, signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Kings, marking a significant change in the Oilers' roster dynamics. Despite these changes and additions, the Oilers now face cap space constraints, entering the new season with less than $1.35 million available. This tight financial situation means the team still needs to negotiate new deals for restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway.
The Oilers' offseason maneuvers reflect a strategic approach aimed at maximizing their chances for the upcoming season. By bringing in experienced players like Skinner and reinforcing key positions, Edmonton is clearly focused on ending their long-standing Stanley Cup drought, which has persisted since 1990.
With their eyes set on the prize, the Oilers' management and coaching staff will be eager to see how their revamped roster performs. Skinner’s addition could provide the spark needed to push the team over the finish line, particularly given his proven scoring ability and experience in high-stakes games. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Edmonton to see if these strategic moves pay off.